ARCHIVE

Going through grief can leave a lasting imprint on the brain and mental health. It can make people feel sad, depressed, unable to concentrate, edgy, anxious, or irritable. And it can cause trouble sleeping, which exacerbates all those other symptoms of grief. If you know someone who’s in mourning, you may want to offer some comforting words. But if you’re like many people, you might be afraid of saying something that doesn’t help or that ends up making them feel worse. In this blog, you’ll discover what psychiatrists say are the worst things to say to someone who’s grieving as well as some of the best things you can say. If you know someone who’s in mourning, you may want to offer some comforting words. But if you’re like many people, you might be afraid of saying something that doesn’t help or that ends up making them feel worse.

Click to tweet

WHAT GRIEVING PEOPLE WISH YOU’D STOP SAYING

If you’re wondering what to say and what not to say to a grieving person, take advice from the neuropsychiatrists at Amen Clinics. Over the past 30-plus years, the mental health professionals at Amen Clinics have helped thousands of patients who are grieving after a major loss. Whether it’s the death of a loved one or the loss of a job, a sense of identity, a pet, or a home, these people are suffering. And their grief greatly impacts their brain function and can lead to what is called “grief brain.” In therapy sessions, grieving people have shared some very hurtful comments they’ve heard that made them feel worse after the loss of a loved one. For example, one woman was just 28 when her 30-year-old husband died in a car accident. She said, “I can’t believe how many people told me, ‘At least you’re young. You’ll find a new husband.’” Another Amen Clinics patient whose son died by suicide, cried when she remembered someone telling her, “It’s a blessing that you have other children.’” Granted, it can be difficult to know what to say or what not to say in life’s most difficult moments. That’s why it’s good to know the phrases that are helpful and the ones you should refrain from using.

19 WORST THINGS TO SAY TO A PERSON IN MOURNING

To help you understand what typically comes off as hurtful rather than helpful, here are 19 things Amen Clinics patients said they wish people would stop saying to someone who’s grieving.

“How are you doing?”
“You’ll be okay after a while.”
“I understand how you feel.”
“You shouldn’t feel that way.”
“Stop crying.”
“At least he’s in a better place. His suffering is over.”
“At least she lived a long life. Many people die young.”
“She brought this on herself.”
“Aren’t you over him yet, he’s been dead for a while now.”
“There is a reason for everything.”
“God’s in charge.”
“She was such a good person. God wanted her to be with Him.”
“Just give it time. Time heals.” (Time does not heal, taking the right steps heals.)
“You’re young. You can still have other children.”
“You’ll do better next time in love.”
“It was just a dog (or cat). You can get another one.”
“Stay busy. Don’t think about it.”
“You have to be strong for your spouse, children, mother, etc.” (This diminishes their need to take time to heal.)
“Just move on.”

13 HELPFUL THINGS TO SAY TO (OR DO FOR) A GRIEVING PERSON

Based on what thousands of Amen Clinics patients have said, here are better ways to communicate and connect with someone who’s in mourning.

“I’m so sorry for your loss.”
“I wish I had the right words. Please know I care, and I’m here for you.”
“You and your loved ones are in my prayers.”
“I can’t imagine how you feel.” Then be quiet and let them tell you about their feelings.
“I can’t imagine how you feel. When I lost my father I felt …..” Then listen without judgment or criticism.
“I’m here for you.” Better yet, if there is something specific they need, ask if you can do it for them. Ask if you can make phone calls or send emails on their behalf.
“Can I go to the funeral?” This is often an important sign of support.
“Want to talk about what happened?” Many people avoid this question, but it helps the griever to explain it, if they desire, and having a compassionate ear can help them process it more accurately.
Just be present.
Share a memory about the person who’s gone.
Be empathetic. It’s okay for you to show your feelings.
Continue connecting, even after a few months. Many people are inundated in the first few weeks, but they need support long after the funeral is over.

HOW TO COPE WITH GRIEF If you’re the one who’s grieving, know that there are steps you can take to cope with the loss. Allowing yourself to express your painful feelings is one of them. It’s understandable that you may be hesitant to relive traumatic events. However, when you avoid painful thoughts, feelings, and memories, it creates more harm than good in the long run. In some cases, it can lead to what mental health professionals call “complicated grief,” also known as “prolonged grief.” Blocking your feelings can also lead to engaging in unhealthy behaviors to deal with the excess negative emotional energy. A wealth of research, including a study in Behaviour Research and Therapy, has shown that avoidance increases the likelihood of a host of mental health conditions and other psychological issues, such as:

Clinical depression
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Anxiety disorders
Binge eating
Chronic pain
Low academic performance

Whenever you’re suffering from grief, write out your feelings or find someone you can talk to. This can help bring perspective, which often gets lost during emotional crises. HOW TO TALK ABOUT GRIEF When you’re ready to share your grief with others, consider the following tips:

Choose your audience carefully. Some people are better listeners and more empathetic than others, so be selective. Pick a few close friends or family members with whom you can talk about your feelings.
Join a bereavement group. Some people find great value in joining a grief support group. Being with other people who are grieving can make you feel less alone. In some cases, you may feel more willing to share openly with people who aren’t family and friends.
See a mental health professional. If you feel like you need more help navigating grief, seek help from a grief counselor or mental health therapist. These individuals are trained to guide you through the most challenging periods of life and can provide helpful strategies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).

Whether you chat with a close friend, take part in a bereavement group, or get grief counseling, talking about your feelings can help you on your healing journey. Depression, PTSD, and other mental health issues can’t wait. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, clinical evaluations, and therapy for adults, teens, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here. Do you worry too much? Do you fret about every little thing in life? Are you constantly stressed about work, health, finances, and more? Maybe you even worry about your worrying. Some people call this “what if disease” or “worst-case scenario disease,” but it can actually be a sign of a mental health disorder. If chronic worrying is interfering with your daily routine and diminishing your quality of life, it’s time to take action. Are you constantly worried about your work, health, finances, relationship, children, pets, and more? Some people call this “what if disease,” but it can actually be a sign of a mental health disorder.

Click to tweet

This blog will introduce you to the consequences of constant worry, what makes some people more prone to worry, and how to stop worrying so you can feel happier.

WHAT IS CHRONIC WORRYING?

Chronic worry occurs when someone is unable to manage their worries. If you fall into this category, you may find that anxious thoughts tend to loop endlessly in your mind. And these fearful thoughts persist even in the lack of a direct threat. Worriers are often preoccupied with distressing thoughts about a wide range of things, including:

Health and the possibility of getting or being ill
Family issues
Romantic relationships and friendships
Career
Financial issues
World affairs
Other issues

When you are constantly fretting about what might go wrong, it can make it very difficult to relax. Chronic stress may lead to hypervigilance, which is being overly aware of your surroundings and potential dangers. You may also have a sense of impending doom, expecting something to go wrong at any moment. It’s important to understand that some anxiety and worry is a good thing. It helps you be prepared. However, chronic worry can be mentally exhausting and physically draining. It is associated with mental health disorders, such as anxiety disorders and obsessive-compulsive disorder. On the physical side, it can lead to muscle tension, a nervous stomach, loose bowels, high blood pressure, increased risk of viral and bacterial infections, and more.

WORRYING IN THE BRAIN

The brain-imaging work using single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) scans at Amen Clinics shows that people who tend to be worriers often have busy brain. In particular, there is too much activity in an area of the brain called the anterior cingulate gyrus (ACG). Located deep in the middle of the frontal lobes, this fascinating region is involved in shifting your attention from one thought to another and from one activity to another. When there is heightened brain activity here, people tend to get stuck. Often due to low serotonin levels in the brain, overactivity in the ACG is common in people who get locked into negative thoughts or behaviors. They have trouble seeing options in situations and stay focused on those worst-case scenarios. Optimizing this part of the mind involves increasing serotonin levels and brain training techniques to stop getting stuck on worries.

6 WAYS TO STOP CHRONIC WORRYING

Eat foods that increase serotonin levels.

Research shows there are two ways that food can increase serotonin levels. First, foods high in simple carbohydrates—such as pastas, potatoes, breads, pastries, pretzels, and popcorn—increase insulin levels. Second, the uptick in insulin raises the amount of L-tryptophan that enters the brain. Tryptophan is a natural amino acid building block for serotonin. With more tryptophan in the brain, more of it is converted to serotonin. The calming effect of serotonin can often be felt in 30 minutes or less by eating these foods. This may be one of the reasons simple carbohydrates are so addictive. Be aware that over time, simple carbohydrates can cause high blood-sugar levels that are associated with brain atrophy and some types of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease. For a healthier way to boost serotonin, opt for complex carbohydrates, such as sweet potatoes and garbanzo beans.

Exercise on a regular basis.

Physical activity can be helpful in calming worries and increasing cognitive flexibility. Exercise works by increasing brain levels of tryptophan, according to research. In addition, exercise increases your energy levels and may distract you from the worrisome thoughts that tend to loop in your mind. When you find yourself focusing on stressful thoughts, take an exercise break. Go for a brisk walk, do a few dance moves, try a few yoga poses, or engage in some other form of exercise. It can help take your mind off your worries.

Practice “Thought Stopping.”

Whenever you notice thoughts looping or getting stuck in your head, imagine seeing a traffic stop sign in your head and silently saying to yourself, “STOP. THIS IS MY ACG GETTING STUCK!” For some people, the more actively they stop these thoughts, the more control they develop over them. Keep a journal where you note how many times you use thought stopping each day. It’s likely the number of times you’ll need this intervention will decrease as you gain better control.

Notice when you’re stuck, distract yourself and come back later.

A primary way to overcome a busy anterior cingulate gyrus is to notice when you’re stuck on a thought and do something to distract yourself. Becoming aware of circular or looping thoughts is essential to gaining control over them. Distraction is often a very helpful technique. Get up and do something else. For example, try singing your favorite song, do a few stretches, or read an article.

Think through answers before automatically saying no.

As mentioned, many worriers imagine the worst things that can happen. Because of this, when asked to do something, these people have an automatic tendency to say no. Fight this tendency. Before answering questions or responding to requests in a negative way, take a breath and think for a moment. If you automatically envision a bad outcome, practice thinking about a good outcome. Is that good scenario more likely to happen than the bad one? If so, say yes.

Write out options and solutions when you feel stuck.

When you’re stuck on a stressful thought, it is often helpful to write it down. Writing it down helps to get it out of your head. Seeing a thought on paper makes it easier to deal with it in a rational way. When repetitive worries interfere with sleep, keep a pen and paper near your bed to write them out. After you write out a thought that has “gotten stuck,” generate a list of things you can do about it and things you can’t do about it. Practice focusing your energy on the things you can control about a situation and stop dwelling on what you can’t control.

SEEKING TREATMENT FOR EXCESSIVE WORRYING

By putting these strategies into action on a daily basis, you can begin to calm your worries. If you try all these interventions but are still wracked with worry, it may be time to see a mental health professional. Treatment options for anxiety and worrying may include various forms of psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), medications, and/or nutritional supplements to boost serotonin levels. Be sure to choose a provider who understands that excessive worrying is associated with overactivity in the brain. This can help you get more targeted treatment that will be more effective. Chronic stress, excessive worrying, and other mental health issues can’t wait. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, clinical evaluations, and therapy for adults, teens, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here.

Lady Gaga has never shied away from sharing the truth about her personal health issues and what she has called her “mental health crisis.” In 2018, while accepting an award from the SAG-AFTRA Foundation, she revealed that she had been diagnosed with fibromyalgia.

An autoimmune disorder, fibromyalgia causes pain and tenderness throughout the body. In some people, the pain can be so debilitating, it interferes with daily living.

“Chronic pain is no joke,” she said in an interview with Vogue.

In her acceptance speech at the SAG-AFTRA Foundation, she said the chronic pain she felt from the autoimmune disease was also accompanied by “panic attacks, acute trauma responses, and debilitating mental spirals that have included suicidal ideation and masochistic behavior.”

Lady Gaga is one of millions of Americans who struggle with both autoimmune disease and mental health issues.

In this blog, you’ll discover more about the link between these conditions, their root causes, why traditional treatment falls short, and better ways to treat them.

Having an autoimmune disease is associated with an increased risk of mood disorders, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and dementia.

Click to tweet

WHAT ARE AUTOIMMUNE DISORDERS?

Autoimmune diseases occur when the body’s immune system malfunctions, leading it to attack and destroy your own healthy tissues by mistake.

The immune system is your body’s natural protector. It is responsible for two main functions:

Defense—It guards against external invaders, including bacteria, viruses, and parasites. It also scans your body for internal troublemakers, such as cancer cells.
Tolerance—The immune system regulates your tolerance level with regards to potential environmental triggers, such as allergens like pollen, beestings, grasses, wheat, peanuts, soy, and corn.

Your immune system carries out this important mission using the following methods:

Finding any internal cells/tissues or external invaders that are troublesome
Enlisting white blood cells to mount an attack against the culprits
Tagging and destroying both internal and external problems
Remembering invaders and troublemakers in case they return

Performing these functions at optimal levels helps keep you healthy. However, when your immune system’s defenses don’t perform their duties adequately, or your system’s tolerance level falls too low or becomes overwhelmed, it makes you more vulnerable to infections and diseases like cancer.

When your immune system is overactive or mistakes healthy tissue for troublemakers, it can lead to autoimmune disorders.

There are more than 100 different autoimmune disorders. These conditions include multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, Crohn’s disease, psoriasis, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, and type 1 diabetes.

Autoimmune disorders are associated with a wide array of signs and symptoms, including pain, fatigue, digestive issues, skin problems, swelling, and more.

Overall, autoimmune disorders affect more than 50 million Americans. Women account for nearly 80% of all cases.

AUTOIMMUNE DISORDERS AND MENTAL HEALTH DISORDERS

Many autoimmune illnesses are linked with psychiatric issues. In fact, over half of all individuals with autoimmune disorders also experience mental health problems, according to research published in Rheumatology.

In this 2023 study, researchers surveyed 1,853 patients with systemic autoimmune rheumatic diseases (SARDs), as well as 289 clinicians. They found that among SARD patients, 57% had anxiety and 55% had depression. In addition, 89% were struggling with fatigue and 70% were experiencing cognitive dysfunction.

Other research has found that having an autoimmune disease is associated with an increased risk of mental health issues, including:

Mood disorders (45% increased risk)
Schizophrenia (45% increased risk)
Bipolar disorder
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), also called attention-deficit disorder (ADD)
Dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease

THE ROOT CAUSES OF AUTOIMMUNE DISORDERS AND MENTAL HEALTH PROBLEMS

Researchers are still trying to pinpoint the exact causes of autoimmune disorders, but many factors can play a role in their development.

Leaky gut
Environmental allergens, such as pollen, dust mites, mold
Food allergens, such as gluten and dairy
Exposure to toxins, such as black mold
Obesity
Head trauma
Lack of exercise or excessive exercise
Poor diet
Nutrient deficiencies
Chronic stress
Sleep disorders
Hidden infections, such as Lyme disease

A growing body of evidence suggests that these factors are some of the same root causes associated with symptoms of mental illness. This helps explain why it is not uncommon for people like Lady Gaga—and perhaps you—to suffer from both autoimmune conditions and psychiatric issues.

WHY TRADITIONAL MEDICAL TREATMENT FALLS SHORT

The traditional treatment protocol for autoimmune disorders centers on suppressing the immune system with strong medications, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, or anti-cancer drugs like methotrexate.

A doctor might give you one medicine to treat arthritis and another one for Crohn’s disease. And if you’re also suffering from depressive symptoms or ADD/ADHD, they may give you antidepressant medication or prescription stimulants to treat them. But this isn’t the best approach, and it can lead to unwanted side effects that make you feel worse.

A BETTER TREATMENT PLAN FOR AUTOIMMUNE DISEASE AND MENTAL WELLNESS

After helping over 100,000 patients at Amen Clinics over the past 30-plus years, it has become clear that there’s a better solution.

To get your immune system to stop attacking your body and start cooperating with it, you need to address the 11 major underlying risk factors that harm your brain, body, memory, and mental health.

In addition, you need to learn to love and care about your immune system. Here are some strategies to help you optimize it:

Get the following lab tests to understand the health of your immune system—complete blood count (CBC), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and antinuclear antibodies (ANA).
Check your vitamin D level and take a nutritional supplement to optimize it if necessary.
Get tested for common infections, such as Lyme disease, herpes simplex 1 and 2, Epstein Barr virus, and toxoplasma gondii.
Avoid common food allergens, such as gluten, dairy, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, and soybeans.
Take therapeutic mushrooms—such as Lion’s mane, reishi, shiitake, and cordyceps—which have been shown to have immune-enhancing effects.
Lower your stress with proven strategies, such as diaphragmatic breathing, meditation or prayer, and listening to calming music.

Putting these strategies into action can help re-balance your immune system to improve autoimmune disease symptoms as well as mental health symptoms.

In addition, it’s important to understand that your brain is involved in both autoimmune diseases and mental health problems.

The functional brain-imaging work at Amen Clinics using SPECT brain scans shows that both autoimmune disorders and mental health issues are associated with unhealthy activity in the brain.

Seeing areas of the brain where there is too much activity or too little activity can help guide mental health professionals in developing a more effective treatment plan.

If you’re struggling with one or more autoimmune issues as well as mental health problems, it’s critical to see a mental health professional. Choose one who understands that a person’s brain and biology impact mental health.

Anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues can’t wait. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, clinical evaluations, and therapy for adults, teens, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here

Are you dating—or married to—someone who is charming but overly confident? Are they constantly bragging about their accomplishments, exaggerating about their life experiences, and talking about all the amazing things they’re going to do one day? You may wonder if they’re a narcissist. Being in a relationship with a narcissist can be challenging. They may lack empathy for your feelings or gaslight you. They can be manipulative and exploitative. How can you tell if they’re just obnoxiously self-centered, or if they have narcissistic personality disorder? Look for these signs of narcissistic personality disorder. People with narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) go beyond these everyday characteristics—they express grandiosity, have a constant need for excessive admiration, and show a lack of empathy for others.

Click to tweet

WHAT ARE THE TRAITS OF NARCISSISTIC PERSONALITY DISORDER?

Many people fall into the category of being overly self-confident, arrogant, and demanding, but this doesn’t necessarily make them narcissistic. People with narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) go beyond these everyday characteristics. The latest version of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, the DSM-V, spells out the following 9 criteria for NPD:

Grandiosity or an inflated sense of self-importance
Lack of empathy
A strong sense of entitlement
A preoccupation with fantasies about power, success, ideal love, intelligence, or beauty
A belief in being so special that they can only be understood and can only associate with other exceptional people or organizations
A need for over-the-top admiration
Takes advantage of others and is exploitative
Is arrogant and haughty
Is envious of others or thinks that other people envy them

For a clinical diagnosis as a narcissist, a person only has to meet 5 of these criteria. The number of people who meet the criteria for a diagnosis of narcissistic personality disorder is estimated to range from less than 1% to over 6% of the population. This mental health disorder is far more common in men, who make up 50%-75% of those affected.

NARCISSISTIC PERSONALITY DISORDER AND THE BRAIN

Many people fall into the category of being overly self-confident, arrogant, or demanding, but this doesn’t necessarily make them narcissistic. People with narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) go beyond these everyday characteristics. The latest version of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, the DSM-5, spells out 9 criteria for NPD. To qualify for a clinical diagnosis of narcissism, a person only has to meet 5 of these traits:

Exaggerated sense of self-importance
Preoccupation with success, power, brilliance, beauty, or ideal love
A sense of entitlement
A belief that they’re special and can only be around others who are also special
Desire for excessive admiration
Exploit others for their own gain
Lack of empathy
Envious of others or a belief that others are envious of them
Arrogant

The number of people who meet the criteria for NPD is estimated to range from less than 1% to over 6% of the population. This mental health disorder is far more common in men, who make up 50%-75% of those affected.

NARCISSISTIC PERSONALITY DISORDER AND THE BRAIN

Symptoms don’t tell the whole story. Brain-imaging studies have found that people who suffer from NPD tend to have abnormalities in the brain. In particular, a 2013 study found that narcissists have less gray matter volume in a region of the brain believed to be involved in empathy. Other brain-imaging research has found that people with NPD also have hypersensitivity in brain systems associated with distress and social pain networks.

5 SIGNS YOU’RE HOOKED ON A NARCISSIST

Some of the hallmark signs that you’re involved with a narcissist include:

It’s all about them.

Narcissists have an exaggerated sense of self-importance and make everything revolve around them and their needs, not yours. You may find that over time, you give up on your own needs and desires, which is known as deselfing.

They sweep you up in their grandiose goals.

People with NPD are preoccupied with fantasies about unbridled success and power. They manage to convince their partners that these unrealistic goals are in fact attainable due to their unique and special talents. When this success fails to materialize, it can leave you feeling resentful.

Constant admiration is required.

Narcissists have a sense of entitlement and believe they deserve special treatment. They need you to provide an endless supply of admiration to keep the relationship going. If they don’t get the attention they want, they may get upset with you.

No criticism allowed.

When questioned or challenged, your mate is likely to lash out with rage or anger. They may have a tendency to gaslight you by making everything seem like it’s your fault. This can contribute to relationship struggles or marital conflict.

You’re being exploited.

People with narcissistic personality disorder have a lack of empathy that often leads to the manipulation or exploitation of their partners. This can make you feel used or taken advantage of.

THE TROUBLE WITH RELATIONSHIPS WITH NARCISSISTS

Because of their supreme confidence, charm, and life-of-the-party personalities, narcissists can be intoxicatingly attractive to some people. They tend to go overboard when wooing a love interest, sweeping you off your feet, and making it seem as if you must be very special to be invited into their extraordinary world. And it feels that way…at first. With time, however, you may realize that the narcissist’s exaggerated delusions of grandeur are merely fantasies. And you may find yourself stuck in an endless cycle of doing whatever it takes to try to please the narcissist, but no matter how much admiration you show them or how much you buy for them, it’s never enough. Trying to stand up for yourself by saying no to their demands can backfire and set you up for harsh criticism and psychological manipulation intended to make you take the blame for not living up to their expectations. This toxic unhealthy relationship can lead you to develop symptoms of anxiety or depression.

TREATMENT FOR NARCISSISM

If you’re involved with someone who has narcissistic personality disorder, it can be hard to get them to seek treatment. After all, they believe they are special and typically refuse to admit that they have a problem. Looking at the brain with functional SPECT scans, however, can help identify abnormalities associated with NPD. It can also reveal signs of co-existing mental health disorders, which are common in narcissistic people. For example, over 40% of those with NPD also have a substance use disorder, 40% struggle with anxiety disorders, and close to 29% suffer from mood disorders such as bipolar disorder or depression. If you’re in a relationship with someone with narcissistic personality disorder, it can be just as important for you to seek psychotherapy. Working with a mental health professional can help you learn how to handle your own feelings and find strategies you can employ to improve the marriage or relationship.

HOW TO END A RELATIONSHIP WITH A NARCISSIST

In some instances, you may decide to walk away from a toxic relationship with a narcissist. If so, make sure you prepare for a divorce or a breakup.

Write a list of reasons why you want out of the relationship and review it frequently.
Develop a plan, including having a new place to live if you are leaving or asking them to leave.
Build a network of trusted friends and family members who will support you through the process.
Be kind to yourself and remind yourself that you don’t deserve to be treated this way.
Don’t give them any second chances.
Seek support from a psychotherapist.

Maintaining your own mental health and sense of self-worth is critical in any relationship with a narcissist, whether you decide to stay with them or leave them. Narcissistic personality disorder, marital conflicts, and other mental health issues can’t wait. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, clinical evaluations, and therapy for adults, teens, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here. Do you feel moody? Do you swing between periods of low moods and highs marked by intense surges of energy? Or do you simply feel down most of the time? If so, you may have a mood disorder, also called an affective disorder. Affective disorders manifest in numerous ways, each with its own symptoms. You’re likely familiar with some types, such as bipolar spectrum disorder (BSD) and major depressive disorder. Others remain lesser-known: Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), for example, was only recognized by the International Classification of Diseases 11th Revision (ICD-11) in 2022. Mood disorders are common and potentially disruptive to everyday life, even increasing risks for illness and death. Here, we will explore 8 types of affective/mood disorders and their symptoms to help create a pathway toward more informed diagnosis and treatment. Individuals with affective disorders may experience moods that are persistently low or that swing drastically—beyond the normal highs and lows that everyone experiences in life.

Click to tweet

WHAT ARE AFFECTIVE DISORDERS?

Affective disorders are mental health conditions that affect a person’s mood. Mood is defined by the National Library of Medicine (NLM) as “a pervasive and sustained feeling tone that is endured internally, and that impacts nearly all aspects of a person’s behavior in the external world.” Individuals with affective disorders may experience moods that are persistently low or that swing drastically—beyond the normal highs and lows that everyone experiences in life. What are mood disorders in terms of brain activity? According to the functional brain-imaging work at Amen Clinics, which includes over 300,000 SPECT scans, mood disorders are associated with abnormal activity levels in various regions of the brain. For example, major depressive disorder is associated with heightened activity in the deep limbic system, which is considered the brain’s emotional center. On SPECT scans, cyclic mood disorders, such as bipolar disorder, can correlate with too much activity across the surface of the brain. However, SPECT scans also show that brain activity changes throughout a woman’s menstrual cycle. Therefore, a woman with PMDD will experience changes in brain activity during the most difficult time of her menstrual cycle. She may have increased deep limbic activity as well as decreased activity in the prefrontal cortex (PFC). Lower activity in the PFC is associated with trouble concentrating and impulsivity. Meanwhile, increased activity in the anterior cingulate gyrus can trigger “stuck” thoughts or behaviors. Because many affective disorder symptoms can overlap, functional brain scans with SPECT can help determine the underlying patterns at work and enable a targeted treatment plan.

TYPES OF MOOD/AFFECTIVE DISORDERS

Now that you know some of the brain changes taking place in mood/affective disorders, here’s a brief overview of this category’s different types.

Bipolar spectrum disorder (BSD), previously known as manic-depressive illness, affects nearly 6 million U.S. adults. Most people experience their first symptoms in young adulthood (late teens to mid-20s), but it can also begin in childhood, or as late as the 50s. BSD tends to run in families, affects men and women equally, and is divided into two types: bipolar I and bipolar II.

Symptoms of bipolar disorder change between different cycles. Manic episodes are characterized by a burst of energy, which can show up as racing thoughts, increased or pressurized talking, irritability, and grandiose ideas, among other symptoms. Depressive episodes, on the other hand, are marked by an excessive slowdown in energy and mood. They may cause someone to sleep more, lose pleasure in typically enjoyable activities, or feel fatigued, helpless, or hopeless. These sweeping shifts may make it difficult for the mood disordered person to create healthy relationships or perform at work or school. They can lead to increased risk for everything from hospitalizations and suicide attempts to substance abuse, anger outbursts, and reckless behavior.

Cyclothymia, also called cyclothymic disorder, is a type of bipolar disorder that is considered less severe than bipolar I or II.

The American Psychiatric Association notes that those with cyclothymic disorder will experience hypomanic and depressive symptoms for at least 2 years, but these symptoms don’t meet the criteria for hypomanic or depressive episodes. To be diagnosed with cyclothymia, the person’s symptoms must persist for at least half of a 2-year period, never stopping for more than 2 months.

Hypomania is a form of bipolar II. The National Library of Medicine describes it as “a non-psychotic, milder, or sub-threshold manic state of short duration.”

It lasts for at least 4 consecutive days but does not create significant impairment in social or workplace settings. Requirements for meeting this diagnosis include elevated mood with 3 or more of the following symptoms, or irritable moods with at least 4 of these symptoms:

Increased goal-directed activity
Grandiosity
Diminished need for sleep
Distractibility
Racing thoughts
Increased/pressured speech
Reckless behavior

Major depressive disorder is now well-known in the U.S., with about 17.3 million people (more than 7% of adults) affected. Women are twice as likely to have clinical depression, but rates are also growing in teens and young adults.

Symptoms include sad or depressed moods, suicidal thoughts, changes in sleeping or eating habits, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, and lack of interest in previously enjoyable activities.

Persistent depressive disorder (PDD), also called dysthymia, involves depressed moods that are less severe than in major depression. A PDD diagnosis requires that a depressed mood has persisted for at least 2 years for adults, or 1 year for children and adolescents.

It’s important to note, however, that all depression is not identical. While SPECT scans often show overactivity in the deep limbic system of these clients, Amen Clinics has noted 7 types of depression and anxiety based on brain patterns. Moreover, it’s estimated that nearly two-thirds of people struggling with depression don’t seek or receive treatment for their condition. Since depression can lead to life-altering—even deadly—consequences, it’s crucial to get help.

Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (DMDD) affects children and adolescents. Symptoms include severe irritability and anger, with frequent and intense temper outbursts.

The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) warns that youth with DMDD are more likely to develop depression and anxiety later in life, and they often require mental health care. Additional consequences include problems at home or school. Children typically receive a diagnosis between ages 6 and 10, after showing symptoms for at least 1 year.

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) occurs in conjunction with a woman’s menstrual cycle. Symptoms usually occur about a week before her period begins, then fade away a few days after it starts.

It’s estimated that 6% of reproductive-age women experience these moderate to severe symptoms, which can impact mood, behavior, and the physical body. Symptoms can include sadness, anger, irritability, fatigue, anxiety, panic attacks, and many more.

Perinatal depression affects women when they are pregnant. When it takes place just after childbirth, it’s called postpartum depression.

The NIMH notes that most perinatal depression episodes start within 4-8 weeks after the birth process. Symptoms can include extreme sadness, anxiety, and fatigue, and these can be mild to severe. Affected women may struggle to perform their usual tasks, including caring for the new baby. Therefore, treatment is crucial to ensure optimal health for both the mother and child.

SEEKING HELP FOR MOOD/AFFECTIVE DISORDERS

While everyone deals with mood changes, affective disorders differ due to their potentially disruptive or even devastating effects. As with many mental health disorders, they often remain undiagnosed or misdiagnosed. Learning the facts, pinpointing the disorder, and treating the root causes will help pave the way to improved emotional regulation for years to come. Mood/affective disorders and other mental health issues can’t wait. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, clinical evaluations, and therapy for adults, teens, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 844-254-3925 or visit our contact page here. This post has been updated since its original publication date. If you think attention-deficit disorder (ADD), or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as it is more commonly called, is just one thing, you’re wrong! The brain-imaging work at Amen Clinics—over 300,000 SPECT scans—shows that it is not a single or simple disorder. In fact, there are 7 types of ADD/ADHD. Each type has a unique set of symptoms that requires a personalized treatment plan. Knowing your type or your child’s type can help you find the most effective treatment to manage symptoms. The brain-imaging work using SPECT scans at Amen Clinics shows that there are 7 types of ADD/ADHD and each has a unique set of symptoms that requires a customized treatment plan.

Click to tweet

In this 7-part blog series, you’ll discover the basics about each of the ADD/ADHD types, their unique symptoms, SPECT scan findings, and science-backed interventions.

WHAT IS CLASSIC ADHD?

Classic ADD is often referred to as ADHD. The “H” is for hyperactivity and is one of the more notable symptoms of this type. Classic ADD/ADHD is the most common diagnosis of the 7 types and is the easiest to recognize. That’s because hyperactivity is one of the more notable symptoms of this type. The hyperactive-impulsive ADHD type is seen more frequently in boys. As babies, they tend to be colicky, active and wiggly. As children, they tend to be noisy, impulsive and demanding. Their hyperactivity, constant need for excitement, and conflict-seeking behavior typically make them the center of attention. Parents of these kids are often tired, overwhelmed and even embarrassed by the behavior of their non-stop, hard-to-control children. In adolescence and adulthood, people who suffer from Classic ADD typically have difficulties handling stress and maintaining relationships. As a group, these individuals also have low self-esteem, which can have negative consequences at work, at home, and in relationships. The standard treatment for Classic ADD in both children and adults is stimulant medications, such as Ritalin or Adderall. Sometimes negative reactions to these medications can be extreme, such as hallucinations, violent outbursts, psychosis, and suicidal behavior.

ADD/ADHD IN THE BRAIN

Most of the 7 types of ADHD and ADD share a common feature of brain function. In people who don’t have ADD, concentration increases blood flow in the prefrontal cortex (PFC). This brain region is involved in focus, planning, organization, judgment, empathy, and impulse control. When activity increases in this region, it helps us focus and stay on task. In people with ADD, however, the opposite occurs. Blood flow decreases during concentration. This makes it difficult to focus. In fact, the harder they try, the harder it gets! This shows that this condition is not due to a lack of willpower or laziness. ADD/ADHD is a neurobiological disorder with serious psychological and social consequences. In fact, research shows that having ADD/ADHD increases the risk of having other mental health disorders, such as clinical depression and substance use disorders.

CORE ADD/ADHD SYMPTOMS

Though each of the ADD subtypes has its own set of symptoms, they all share the same core symptoms:

A short attention span for regular, routine, everyday tasks (homework, chores, etc.)
Distractibility
Organization problems (like having a messy room, always running late, etc.)
Procrastination
Forgetfulness
Problems with follow-through
Poor impulse control (saying or doing something before thinking it through)

TYPE 1: CLASSIC ADD SYMPTOMS

In addition to the core characteristics, Classic ADD entails a number of additional signs and symptoms, including:

Inattentiveness
Has trouble listening when others are speaking; frequently interrupts
Makes careless mistakes/poor attention to detail
Hyperactivity
Restlessness
Has difficulty waiting their turn
Acts as though they’re driven by a motor
Talks excessively

Take note that these symptoms can range from mild to severe. In addition, not everyone with Classic ADD will have all of these symptoms. You or your child may only have some of them.

CLASSIC ADHD TREATMENT

Medication isn’t the only way to treat ADD/ADHD. In fact, there are many natural ways to help ADD symptoms. Here are 6 lifestyle interventions that can help manage symptoms.

Keep moving.

Due to hyperactivity and impulsivity, those with Classic ADD frequently fall short when attempting to complete concentration tasks. To help improve concentration, frequent movement is essential. The more that exercise is incorporated into mundane activities, the easier it will be to concentrate.

Make it fun.

For children who have trouble concentrating during educational activities, a busy activity right beforehand, such as cardio, can help improve concentration. Additionally, children with Type 1 are more focused when educational or clean-up tasks are presented as a race, obstacle course, or other fun game.

Be a stand-up employee.

For those with adult ADHD, if you have a desk job, stand up and move around at least once an hour. Creating an organized and creative work environment will also help you focus and maximize productivity.

Get good sleep.

For optimal functioning and focus, get 7-9 hours of sleep each night. To restore proper balance to your sleep cycle, avoid common sleep stealers like caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, daytime naps, and using technology right before bed.

Create a support structure.

Maintaining relationships with friends and family who support you and understand your personality can be beneficial in helping you cope with Type 1 flare-ups.

Get a customized solution.

Like many other mental health conditions, ADHD has multiple types. Therefore, treatment is not a one-size-fits-all solution. What works for one person with ADHD may not work for another—or could even make the symptoms worse! To get a personalized treatment plan, you need to know two things:

Do you have adult ADHD?
What is your ADD type?

To know your type, brain imaging with SPECT can be very helpful. Without brain imaging, psychiatrists can only guess which type you have. Want more information? Download Amen Clinics’ free Getting to Know the 7 ADD Types eBook. ADD/ADHD and other mental health issues can’t wait. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, clinical evaluations, and therapy for adults, teens, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here. When you have depression, life feels like a constant struggle. In addition to dealing with internal feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, worthlessness, and emptiness, you may experience some “embarrassing” symptoms of depression. Maybe you haven’t showered in days. Maybe you’re late to work every day because you can’t motivate yourself to get out of bed. Maybe you’re more forgetful. These are some of the outward signs of depression that the people around you tend to notice. The problem is most of those people are unaware that these issues are associated with your underlying mental health condition. As a result, you may end up being labeled in unkind ways. At Amen Clinics, patients with major depressive disorder often open up about their most “embarrassing” symptoms, behaviors, and traits. If you’ve experienced some of these same issues, it’s helpful to know that you aren’t alone. To help break the stigma and shame that comes with depression and other mental disorders, it’s important to be open about these cringe-inducing symptoms. In addition to dealing with internal feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, worthlessness, and emptiness, you may experience some “embarrassing” symptoms of depression.

Click to tweet

7 EMBARRASSING SIGNS OF DEPRESSION

Based on tens of thousands of patients at Amen Clinics, here are 7 of the most common bad habits and unwanted behaviors depressed people say they experience.

Not bathing.

If you’re like many of the depressed patients at Amen Clinics, you may not be able to muster the energy to bathe on a daily basis. You might prefer to stay in your pajamas all day—especially if you’re working from home. You may also skip washing your hair or shaving, which can make you look unkempt. When Shelly, a 47-year-old attorney, visited Amen Clinics, she said, “I can go for days on end without even thinking about taking a shower. But then when I have to meet a client at the office, I realize how unprofessional I look, and I get embarrassed about my body odor.”

Gaining weight.

For some people, weight gain is the most mortifying side effect of depression. Among women, increased body mass index (BMI) is actually linked to a rise in suicidal thoughts, according to research in the American Journal of Public Health. Statistics from the CDC show that 43% of people with depression are obese, and adults who are depressed are at increased risk for obesity. What’s the connection? For 23-year-old Terra, eating was a way to try to fill the emptiness she felt inside, but it backfired. “All this extra weight makes me feel awful about myself. I don’t want to see any of my friends or family because I’m ashamed of the way I look, and I’m worried about what they might say to me,” she said. Treating clinical depression with antidepressants can make things worse as antidepressant medications list weight gain as a possible side effect. Being able to maintain a healthy weight is another reason why it is so important to look for natural ways to promote healthy moods.

Brain fog.

Do you find yourself forgetting what your spouse said to you 5 minutes ago? Do you have trouble following conversations? Do you feel mentally confused? Brain fog is a frustrating complaint among people with affective disorders. For Amen Clinics patient Jill, 43, brain fog was the most embarrassing aspect of depression. “Everything seems all mixed up in my head, and I can’t remember anything,” she said. “I feel stupid and don’t want to open my mouth for fear of saying something wrong.”

Sexual dysfunction.

Men and women both complain that depression causes a host of sexual problems. Even worse, commonly prescribed antidepressants can sabotage your sex life. You may have low or no sex drive, and it may take longer to achieve an orgasm if you are able to climax at all. Depression is also associated with erectile dysfunction, which can be a major source of embarrassment for men. “Having problems in the bedroom makes me feel so inadequate,” said 42-year-old Robbie, who sought help for his anxiety and depressive symptoms. “It’s so humiliating.”

Appearing flaky.

With depressed moods, it’s common to isolate yourself from other people. When asked if you want to join family or friends for an event, you may say “yes” and genuinely mean it. But when the time comes to get ready and head out the door, a sense of dread may descend over you, and you cancel your plans. “Bailing on plans at the last minute makes me seem flaky and unreliable,” said 50-year-old Blaine, a pilot who had always prided himself on being punctual and dependable. “I hate this version of myself.”

Being a bad employee.

Do you zone out on Zoom meetings? Are you always showing up late to work because you overslept or didn’t have the energy to get out of bed in the morning? Do you get irritated with your coworkers? Depression can wreak havoc with your ability to be productive and creative in your work. Jason, 25, sought treatment at Amen Clinics for clinical depression that had started when he was in college. He said, “I should have been excited about getting my first promotion at work after graduating from college. But my depression made it really hard for me to concentrate so I would miss my deadlines.” In addition, Jason said, “I felt so exhausted all the time that I would arrive late, then I started skipping work altogether. Eventually, I got demoted, which was so embarrassing.”

Snapping at my kids.

Irritability and anger are some of the most unrecognized depression symptoms of depression. However, research shows that about one-third of depressed people also experience moments of rage. Many Amen Clinics patients with mood disorders admit that they are quick to lose their temper and tend to yell, throw things, or slam the door. Anton, a 38-year-old computer programmer with two toddlers under the age of 5, didn’t realize that his depressive disorder was tied to his anger. “I get so irritated at the kids and I snap at them in front of other people,” he said. “Then I instantly regret it and feel so ashamed, like I’m a bad parent.”

OVERCOMING EMBARRASSING DEPRESSION SYMPTOMS

As these patients learned, you don’t have to continue suffering from embarrassing signs of depression. Understanding that your unwanted behaviors are, in fact, related to depression is one of the first steps to healing. In addition, the brain SPECT imaging work at Amen Clinics shows that depression is a brain-based disorder. It isn’t a character flaw, and it isn’t your fault. One of the biggest lessons from over 225,000 SPECT scans in the Amen Clinics database is the fact that depression is not just one thing. In fact, there are 7 types of depression. Knowing your depression type is one of the keys to getting the most effective treatment. Discovering this helped each of the Amen Clinics patients mentioned in this blog to overcome feelings of shame associated with their habits. That’s why it’s so important to seek help from mental health professionals who utilize brain imaging as a tool to help diagnose and treat mental health conditions. Targeted treatment for depression that involves natural solutions whenever possible can be the key to overcoming those embarrassing behaviors and feeling good about yourself again. Depression, brain fog, aggression, and other mental health issues can’t wait. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, clinical evaluations, and therapy for adults, teens, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here. The holiday season can be an exciting and wondrous time of the year. It also can be a time filled with hassles and disappointments. Many things can steal your joy during the holidays…if you let them. Regardless of the situation, you can control your reaction to life’s curveballs. How you deal with stressful or frustrating circumstances can either make you bitter or grateful.

Focus on Gratitude

Although being thankful is commonly associated with the holidays, there are significant health benefits to remaining grateful year-round. Did you know that practicing gratitude actually makes your brain work better? It causes significant changes to occur in your brain that can enhance function and make you feel better. Research suggests that focusing on gratitude helps to calm the deep limbic areas and enhance the other judgment centers of your brain. People who express gratitude on a regular basis are healthier, more optimistic, make better progress toward their goals, have a greater sense of well-being, and are more helpful to others. Living in a state of gratitude is more than just thanking someone for opening the door for you – although that’s a good thing to do. It’s about having an attitude of gratitude despite hardships or setbacks. Implementing these 6 habits can help you remain grateful during the holidays and throughout the year:

6 Tips for Remaining Grateful Year-round

1. Take a Timeout

You may feel pressure to be everything to everyone, but there’s only so much one person can accomplish. Increase your energy and stamina by giving yourself a timeout. We all need time to recharge our batteries and self-care is one of the best things you can do for yourself. Taking the time to reflect on what you’re grateful for can help reduce your stress and improve your mood.

2. Write It Down

One of the best ways to remain grateful is to write down five things you’re thankful for every day. Keeping a journal can be an enjoyable hobby as well as a great way to unwind after a stressful day. When you focus on what you love, your brain works better, and you’ll feel better. You should notice a significant increase in your level of happiness in a short period of time.

3. Relaxing Tunes

It’s no surprise that listening to music can increase pleasurable feelings, improve mood, boost energy, raise dopamine levels and help with focus and concentration. Remaining in a relaxed state of mind is easier to accomplish when you have a happy tune running through your head. Listen to brain enhancing music specifically composed to enhance mood, gratitude, motivation, and inspiration.

4. Put People First

Disconnect from technology, not people. Multiple research studies have indicated that spending too much time texting, browsing the internet and posting content on social media can lead to stress, sleeping disorders, anxiety and depression. On the flipside, spending time with positive people can have a dramatic impact on your health and habits. Be grateful for family, friends and other caring people in your life.

5. Boost Longevity

Expressing gratitude for the blessings you experience daily can help prolong your life. Although this sounds far too good to be true, different studies have indicated that gratitude can extend lifespan. Gratitude produces optimism which can lead to longevity. Do whatever you can to stay in a grateful state. Your future self thanks you.

6. Meditation and Relaxation

Taking breaks for meditation and relaxation can provide benefits for both your physical and mental health. Spending just 15 minutes alone, without distractions, may help refresh your mind. Clearing your mind and slowing your breathing can help restore inner calm. Repeating simple words like “May I be safe and secure” can increase positive emotions and decrease negative ones. Loving Kindness Meditations (LKM) can promote gratitude and restore a positive outlook.

Gratitude and the Brain

Psychologist Noelle Nelson and Dr. Daniel Amen conducted a study on appreciation and gratitude. While working on her book, “The Power of Appreciation,” two SPECT (Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography) images were taken of Noelle’s brain. 30 minutes prior to her first scan, Noelle meditated on things she was thankful for in her life. Her brain looked very healthy after this “appreciation meditation.” Several days later, Noelle was scanned after focusing on her major fears. Her fearful scan looked radically different than her meditation scan. Noelle had significantly decreased activity in her cerebellum and temporal lobes. The results of Noelle’s scans were striking. Thankful thoughts had a positive effect, while fearful thoughts had a negative effect on her brain. Many people have experienced improved mood, increased energy, and optimized brain function after getting brain SPECT imaging at one of the Amen Clinics. By discovering your specific brain type, we can create a tailored solution for you. We’re committed to treating our patients with the least toxic, most effective regimen possible. Our Full Evaluation of your biological/psychological/social/spiritual history, coupled with two brain SPECT imaging scans (in concentrating and resting states), cognitive testing, and clinical assessment is designed to address unique needs and offer targeted treatment options. For more information on how brain SPECT imaging can provide a customized treatment plan for you or a loved one, call us today at 888-288-9834 or visit us online to schedule a visit. There’s a cool crispness in the air, the scent of fall spices in the kitchen, and the holidays right around the corner. For many people, it’s the most wonderful time of the year. For others, it’s the dawn of the worst time of year when sadness sets in. It isn’t uncommon for shorter days, cold weather, and a lack of sunshine to trigger mild winter blues, which affects about 14% of American adults. For approximately 6% of people, however, a type of depression called Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) descends like a dark cloud.

Click to tweet

Be aware that SAD isn’t solely restricted to the winter months. A much smaller percentage of people develop seasonal depression in the summer.

SYMPTOMS OF SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISORDER

SAD shares many of the same symptoms as major depressive disorder, including persistent sadness, negative moods, loss of interest in usually pleasurable activities, and difficulty concentrating. However, SAD has some atypical features compared with depression, such as: SAD Symptoms Depression Symptoms Oversleeping Insomnia Weight gain Weight loss Appetite increase Loss of appetite Agitation Feeling slowed down If you have SAD, you’re likely to feel lethargic, irritable, and have trouble waking up in the morning. You probably feel like you never get enough rest even though you’re sleeping more than usual. You may tend to eat more, especially sweets and high-glycemic carbohydrates, which contributes to weight gain. It’s harder to concentrate, and you don’t feel like socializing with friends and family. Some people describe the feeling as being a grouchy bear that needs to hibernate for the winter. It’s no surprise that this can lead to problems at work, at school, and in relationships. In general, the holiday season is difficult for many people. Financial pressures and the expectations of family members are high. For those of us who have lost a loved one or are alone, grief reactions can intensify during the holidays. Typically, the winter blues or “holiday blues” resolve rapidly with social support or without intervention after the first of the New Year. SAD, on the other hand, continues to intensify during the holiday season, into the New Year, and into early spring. Without intervention, the symptoms don’t begin to abate until early to mid-spring, or until summertime for some people, when the days are longer.

SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISORDER IN THE BRAIN

Experts are still researching what causes SAD, but findings so far suggest there may be multiple neurobiological factors, including the following.

Pineal gland disruption: Sunlight detected by the retina of the eye sends signals to the more primitive parts of the brain, one of which is the pineal gland. The pineal gland plays a vital role in hormone regulation, and one of the hormones it controls is melatonin. Disruption of the pineal gland hormone axis due to light deprivation is thought to be a primary cause of SAD. Support for this line of thought comes from several observations. First, SAD is decidedly more common in parts of the world that are more deprived of sunlight. In the U.S., for example, the rate of SAD is much highest in Alaska and is higher in the Pacific Northwest and in Maine than in southern states. The rate of SAD is higher in Scandinavian countries than in southern European countries. Second, people with SAD who travel to a more southern location experience improvement in their symptoms.
Melatonin disruption: Melatonin helps set the body’s biorhythms. According to a 2015 overview of SAD in Depression Research and Treatment, people with SAD may produce abnormally high levels of melatonin, which drains energy and provokes sleepiness.
Serotonin regulation problems: Research shows that people with SAD have trouble regulating serotonin, a “feel-good” neurotransmitter that is believed to be involved in mood control. A 2014 study in European Neuropsychopharmacology found that people with SAD have seasonal fluctuations in SERT, a protein that is involved in serotonin transport. In the winter months, they have 5% more SERT, which translates into lower serotonin activity, which is believed to be related to depression.
Reduced vitamin D levels: During the winter months, when sunshine is in shorter supply, people with SAD may produce less of this important vitamin. Having low levels of vitamin D, which is known as the “sunshine vitamin,” has been linked to depression and bipolar disorder. Vitamin D is also believed to play a role in serotonin activity, and lower levels may impact this important neurotransmitter.

In people who experience SAD during the summer months, it is often too much heat or too much light that triggers the onset of depressive symptoms.

HOW TO STOP FEELING SO SAD

If you experience SAD, there is hope. Many natural therapies can be helpful in reducing symptoms of depression, including the following.

Bright light therapy: A growing body of research shows that using bright light therapy, especially in the morning, is effective in treating SAD. Bright light therapy is full-spectrum light that has to be at least 10,000 lux or higher to be effective. “Full-spectrum” is important terminology. It means that the light is the same color spectrum as sunlight. Other types of light won’t do for the treatment of SAD. For this therapy, aim for 20-30 minutes of exposure in the morning.
Vitamin D supplementation: If you experience SAD, it’s critical to check your vitamin D levels and optimize them with a nutritional supplement if necessary.
Kill the ANTs: It’s common for people with SAD to fall into unhealthy negative thinking patterns. Learning to kill the ANTs (automatic negative thoughts) by challenging your thoughts can be helpful. Psychotherapy can be beneficial in showing you how to change your thinking habits.
Happy foods: Resisting the cravings to consume high-glycemic carbohydrates can help. As the winter months approach (and ideally year-round), focus your diet on foods that fight depression.

In some cases when natural treatments aren’t enough, medications may be helpful. It’s also important to look into other factors that may be contributing to depressive symptoms. Depression, seasonal affective disorder, and other mental health issues can’t wait. During these uncertain times, your mental well-being is more important than ever and waiting until life gets back to “normal” is likely to make your symptoms worsen over time. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, remote clinical evaluations, and video therapy for adults, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here.

ARCHIVE

Mental Health and Post-Concussion Syndrome: Katie’s Story

How Zach Healed His Brain from Alcohol and Drug Addiction

WHAT GRIEVING PEOPLE WISH YOU’D STOP SAYING

19 WORST THINGS TO SAY TO A PERSON IN MOURNING

13 HELPFUL THINGS TO SAY TO (OR DO FOR) A GRIEVING PERSON

WHAT IS CHRONIC WORRYING?

WORRYING IN THE BRAIN

6 WAYS TO STOP CHRONIC WORRYING

Eat foods that increase serotonin levels.

Exercise on a regular basis.

Practice “Thought Stopping.”

Notice when you’re stuck, distract yourself and come back later.

Think through answers before automatically saying no.

Write out options and solutions when you feel stuck.

SEEKING TREATMENT FOR EXCESSIVE WORRYING

WHAT ARE AUTOIMMUNE DISORDERS?

AUTOIMMUNE DISORDERS AND MENTAL HEALTH DISORDERS

THE ROOT CAUSES OF AUTOIMMUNE DISORDERS AND MENTAL HEALTH PROBLEMS

WHY TRADITIONAL MEDICAL TREATMENT FALLS SHORT

A BETTER TREATMENT PLAN FOR AUTOIMMUNE DISEASE AND MENTAL WELLNESS

WHAT ARE THE TRAITS OF NARCISSISTIC PERSONALITY DISORDER?

NARCISSISTIC PERSONALITY DISORDER AND THE BRAIN

NARCISSISTIC PERSONALITY DISORDER AND THE BRAIN

5 SIGNS YOU’RE HOOKED ON A NARCISSIST

It’s all about them.

They sweep you up in their grandiose goals.

Constant admiration is required.

No criticism allowed.

You’re being exploited.

THE TROUBLE WITH RELATIONSHIPS WITH NARCISSISTS

TREATMENT FOR NARCISSISM

HOW TO END A RELATIONSHIP WITH A NARCISSIST

WHAT ARE AFFECTIVE DISORDERS?

TYPES OF MOOD/AFFECTIVE DISORDERS

SEEKING HELP FOR MOOD/AFFECTIVE DISORDERS

WHAT IS CLASSIC ADHD?

ADD/ADHD IN THE BRAIN

CORE ADD/ADHD SYMPTOMS

TYPE 1: CLASSIC ADD SYMPTOMS

CLASSIC ADHD TREATMENT

7 EMBARRASSING SIGNS OF DEPRESSION

Not bathing.

Gaining weight.

Brain fog.

Sexual dysfunction.

Appearing flaky.

Being a bad employee.

Snapping at my kids.

OVERCOMING EMBARRASSING DEPRESSION SYMPTOMS

Focus on Gratitude

6 Tips for Remaining Grateful Year-round

1. Take a Timeout

2. Write It Down

3. Relaxing Tunes

4. Put People First

5. Boost Longevity

6. Meditation and Relaxation

Gratitude and the Brain

SYMPTOMS OF SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISORDER

SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISORDER IN THE BRAIN

HOW TO STOP FEELING SO SAD